Many Turlock patients believe that sugar
is the absolute worst for your teeth. We
are all familiar with the fact that
consuming too much sodium can increase
chances of developing high blood pressure,
heart attack and stroke, but you may not
know that salt can be just as aggravating
to your teeth as sugar. Dr. Cesar Acosta
wants his patients to know the facts when
it comes to sodium and dental health.
Salt and Tooth Decay
I’m sure you’re wondering how sodium
comes into play with oral health. The salt
itself does not damage tooth enamel, but
sodium and carbohydrates often go
hand-in-hand, especially when it comes
to processed foods. Oral bacteria feasts
on simple sugars and produces tough
acids whenever you consume any food or
beverage that contains carbohydrates.
The acids are kept in contact with tooth
enamel by plaque that forms in your
mouth throughout the day. The longer it
remains in your mouth, the more time the
tooth enamel becomes damaged.
Bread, pizza, pasta, and salty snacks are
among the top sources of sodium in the
American diet. While most of these foods
are relatively low in sugar, some of their
starches can be broken down into simple
sugars by the enzymes in your mouth. As
your body breaks them down, the starches
generate the same damaging effects to
your teeth as sugar would.
Sodium can also weaken your teeth. A lot
like bones, tissues make up your teeth rely
on calcium to give them structure and
strength. A high sodium intake is shown to
increase the amount of calcium your body
disposes of through urine, which can lead
to osteoporosis and tooth loss.
The Other View of Salt and Your Teeth
The American Heart Association does not
recommend using salt liberally in your
diet. You should not consume more than
1,500 milligrams a day. Rather than
consuming sodium, applying it to your
teeth or using it as a mouthwash can
actually be beneficial. The American
Dental Association believes that sodium
lauryl sulfate and other sodium-based
compounds act as foaming detergents in
toothpaste. A mild salt rinse is also
recommended to sooth painful tooth sores
or bacterial infections.
No matter what your diet may be, it is
very important that you partake in daily
oral hygiene, as well as annual dental
cleanings and checkups. Contact our
office today to schedule an appointment
or for more information.
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